SHOWSTOPPER: Harry Male, 2, tries to win the biggest toy he can in the rubber duck game at the Griffith Show yesterday.
WHETHER it was the rubber ducks or the hot pink chickens, the fireworks or the fender benders, everyone had a reason to smile as they soaked up the 2012 Griffith Show yesterday.
Eager to get their fill of the annual festivities, the crowds started pouring into the showgrounds early and Griffith Show treasurer Denny Fachin said it was a great sight to see.
“It’s been a great show so far,” he said.
“It’s the best we have had a lot bigger than what they are usually.
“There seems to be a lot more excitement and more atmosphere.”
The ever-popular sideshow alley and show bag pavilion were once again main attractions while the petting zoo, the exhibits and the live reptile display were also drawing big crowds.
Show-goer Mackenzie Skof, 8, said she loved coming to the show and always had a lot of fun.
“We’ve been playing the games and I won a tiara and a pair of earrings and now we’re going on a ride,” she said.
“We also went to the petting zoo and saw the coloured chickens - they were my favourite, they were pretty funny.”
Griffith Show secretary Juley Jackson said it had been an extremely busy first day and was very happy the sun had come out at the right time.
“It’s been fantastic,” she said.
“After earlier in the week, it’s great weather and this is one of the better crowds I’ve seen in my years involved in the show.”
Griffith Show president Christine Stead said it was great to see so many residents get out and enjoy the day.
“We’ve been very happy with the weather and the crowds,” she said.
“I’ve been out speaking with them and they’re very happy with it all too.
“We’re thrilled with the community’s support, it’s a great family outing and there’s still time to come and join us.”
The first day of the show ended with huge crowds gathering to admire the fireworks before cheering on their favourite drivers in the hotly contested demolition derby.
The show continues today with gates opening at 9am.